Britvic points to healthy lifestyles for bigger sales

Britvic believes that consumers choosing ‘healthier living and moderate drinking’ is the reason for the increase in sales for 2016.

The global soft drinks company said that a ‘shift in consumer behaviour’ has led to the increase in sales because people are choosing soft drinks on a more regular basis.

Russell Goldman, commercial director foodservice and licensed at Britvic GB, said: “The soft drinks category performed well in 2016 in the Foodservice and Licensed channels with consumers choosing soft drinks on more occasions, driven by a number of factors.

"The trend for healthy living and moderate drinking, for example, has seen sales of lower and no added sugar options soar, as consumers increasingly opt for soft drinks on social occasions."

Britvic released its 2016 annual report in March which shows a 9.7% increase in the sales of its mixer range, therefore indicating that Britvic is benefiting more from the cocktail industry.

The Britvic mixer range contains orange juice, tomato juice, two tonic waters and ginger ale which can all feature in a variety of 'classic cocktails'.

Goldman added: “Spirits are in double-digit growth as consumer demand for premium products and experiences in outlet increases. In the soft drinks category, mixers have been a clear beneficiary of this trend, with growth of 15.5% in licensed premises last year.

“What this all points to is a shift in consumer behaviour in the channel. They’re going out more, but they want – and expect – an outlet to give them a great experience and the option to choose a healthier drink or to treat themselves.”